Hiring a guide (driver and vehicle) in TAR

Hi all,

Myself and one fellow traveler are planning on spending around two weeks in TAR. After a couple of days in Lhasa we would like to explore the surrounding monasteries and we are hoping to be able to spend three to four days trekking.

I've already read up a little on conditions to obtain a permit to TAR, so I wanted to ask how much it would cost to hire a driver and a vehicle per day. What are some legit travel agencies to get in contact with?

And is it possible to go trekking if you are required to hire a guide and car if you are outside of Lhasa?

I'm sorry if this has been asked before, but i wanted to be sure to get up to date information.

It has been asked a zillion times before and answered with up to date information. All costs for different groups will have a variation depending what you do and where you go. For travel companies, do a search here, contact some and get a price.

The reason for the new 2012 Permit Situation Update, i.e. the Tibet sticky at the top of the NEAsia and Tibet branches is to provide new accurate information. Start at the end for the most up to date information and work backwards. It was posted less than 2 months ago.

#16 in the thread mentions some companies.

Ruth

There isn't a general flat rate fee per day for travel in the TAR. The cost of a guide is usually between 200 RMB and 300 RMB per day, however the cost of the vehicle is going to depend on how far you travel.

All trekking will need to be guided. You tour guide will go on the trek with you (or follow you/lead you in a vehicle if you trek to Everest Base Camp).

For more information on how to arrange travel in Tibet, read through the following links:

Travel in Tibet
How to arrange travel in Tibet
FAQ on travel to Tibet